Chemistry
/ˈkɛməstri/
Definitions
2 meaningsThe branch of science concerned with the substances of which matter is composed, the investigation of their properties and reactions, and the use of such reactions to form new substances.
/ˈkɛməstri/
The science of matter and its properties
Organic chemistry is a challenging subject.
💡 Simply: Chemistry is like a puzzle where you mix different things together to see what happens. Imagine baking a cake – that involves chemical reactions!
👶 For kids: It's the science of mixing things and seeing what happens!
More Examples
The experiment demonstrated a fundamental principle of chemistry.
How It's Used
"We learned about the basics of chemistry in high school."
"The research team made a breakthrough in organic chemistry."
A strong attraction or rapport between people; a feeling of mutual understanding and attraction.
/ˈkɛməstri/
Interaction or relationship between people
The chemistry between the two leads was electric.
💡 Simply: Chemistry between people is like magic! It means they click really well and have a great connection, like two puzzle pieces that fit perfectly.
👶 For kids: When two people really like being together.
More Examples
They had amazing chemistry – it was obvious they were meant to be together.
How It's Used
"There was an undeniable chemistry between the two actors."
From Middle English <i>chimie</i>, from Old French <i>chimie</i>, from Medieval Latin <i>alchimia</i>, from Arabic <i>al-kīmiyāʾ</i>, from Greek <i>khēmeía</i> "alchemy".
The word originally referred to alchemy, before evolving to its modern scientific meaning.
Memory tip
Think 'chem' for chemical reactions and 'istry' for study.